Summer adventures for families at Runnymede

Runnymede's patchwork of ponds, meadows and woodland is the perfect place for exploring this summer. Pack a picnic, grab an adventure backpack and get ready to start your adventures.

Visitors walking up the steps leading to the Kennedy Memorial, Runnymede, Surrey — Climb the steps to visit the JFK memorial

Follow the Riverside Ramble

Follow an "I Spy"-style family trail along the Thames, suitable for all ages, from Saturday 22 July - Sunday 3 September.

A staff member dressed as King John for a children's talk

Meet King John on Terrible Tuesdays

Two terrible tyrants are historically tied to Runnymede. Come and meet King John on Tuesdays in August and he'll tell you all about their wicked ways. 11.30am-12pm * N.B. Talk on Tuesday 29 August changed to Thursday 31 August

A damsel fly resting on a blade of common read

Head out on a dragonfly hunt

Join our ranger Laura for a guided walk at Runnymede on Sunday 13 August to learn more about these fascinating insects. There will be chance to spot adults on the wing, look for exuviae at the pond’s edge, and have a go at pond-dipping for larvae.

Event details

Become a history hunter

Borrow an adventure backpack on your next visit and follow a trail exploring the history, heritage and landscape of Runnymede.

Start your investigation

A cinnabar moth caterpillar on a ragwort plant

Complete your 50 things scrapbook

The National Trust's scrapbook of 50 things to do before you're 11 ¾ offers loads of ways to have fun in the countryside. Complete one of the activities available at Runnymede and we'll give you a sticker for your scrapbook.

50 things at Runnymede

Picnic by the river

Pack a picnic and find your spot on the riverside. While you're munching, how many dragonflies can you see?

Cake on a stand in the Magna Carta Tea-room

Food and drink

The café serves hot and cold lunches every day, as well as cream teas and meals for children. Highchairs and bottle-warming facilities are available.

Planning your visit

Plan ahead to make the most of your visit. The Riverside car park opens from 1 April, and both car parks close at 7pm. The tea-room is open from 10am until 5pm, serving drinks, hot lunches and baked treats. From here you can also borrow an Adventure Backpack and become a history hunter at Runnymede, or pick up a map and follow one of the coloured trails around the countryside.